This week, James Cook, the newest lead running back for the Buffalo Bills, really cooked with gas on the practice field. He made sure to fully engage in each and every one of the team’s sessions. He did step away long enough to hop on an adjacent exercise bike with injured players. Indeed, while Cook’s dedication to his teammates is surely admirable, the shadow of contract negotiations hangs ominously.
Dressed in a white sweatsuit complemented by a Bills sweatshirt and a beanie featuring his number, Cook showcased both team spirit and personal style. His presence is a key element to the Bills’ offensive game plan. He took part in all three days of mandatory minicamp and finished all eight sessions of training camp thus far. Despite his active role, Cook did not attend the team’s voluntary offseason activities, raising questions about his future with the organization.
Last season, Cook set a new franchise record with 17 rushing touchdowns. He’s been an effective third cog in a running back by committee with Ty Johnson and Ray Davis. He was on the field for over 45% of the offensive snaps last season. This level of active participation speaks to how important he’s become to the team’s offense. In addition, his 2,638 career rushing yards rank first among all players in the 2022 Draft Class.
Coach Sean McDermott did not place Cook on the injured list ahead of practice. All that to say, Cook is healthy and apparently finally acclimated and ready to be a serious contributor! Resting just under the surface, but still an issue all along, has been Cook’s unique contract situation. During the offseason, he lobbied for a contract that would put him on par with the NFL’s elite running backs.
“It ain’t no side. It’s just business.” – James Cook
General Manager Brandon Beane continues to hold out hope for Cook’s long-term future with the team. He expressed a desire to see Cook continue to advocate for the Bills at future training camps. He too focused on the multifaceted nature of negotiations over the contract.
“Sometimes you can’t get on the same page, or sometimes you’re trying to fit it in. There’s times guys have left here that we really wanted. We just couldn’t make it work. But I can tell you, I’m hopeful when we’re sitting here at next year’s training camp that James Cook is out there practicing and still representing the red, white and blue.” – Brandon Beane
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